is brewing

USAGE SUMMARY

'is brewing' is a correctly used phrase in written English.
It usually means that something is developing in a particular way, often implying a sense of anticipation or danger. For example, "The storm is brewing; I can smell it in the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A battle is brewing.

The New York Times

But trouble is brewing.

Independent

Trouble is brewing.

The Economist

A dilemma is brewing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A showdown is brewing.

The New York Times

A storm is brewing.

The New York Times

Discontent is brewing.

The Guardian - Books

But now trouble is brewing.

The Guardian

A legal battle is brewing.

The New York Times

A storm is brewing too.

The New York Times

A similar situation is brewing.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is brewing" to create a sense of anticipation or suspense, especially when describing conflicts, changes, or significant events. For example, "A political crisis is brewing.".

Common error

Avoid using "is brewing" in predictable or overly dramatic situations, as it can sound clichéd. Instead, opt for more specific and descriptive language. For example, instead of "Trouble is brewing", try "Tensions are escalating" or "A conflict is developing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is brewing" functions as a present continuous tense, indicating an action or state that is currently in progress. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it suggests that something is developing or emerging, often with a sense of anticipation or potential conflict. The phrase emphasizes the ongoing nature of the development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is brewing" is a versatile and frequently used expression, particularly within news and media contexts, to denote a situation that is actively developing, often implying potential conflict or significant change. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and conveys a sense of anticipation. While generally neutral in register, its overuse in clichéd contexts should be avoided. Alternatives like "is developing" or "is emerging" may offer a more nuanced or formal tone depending on the specific context. With 59 real-world examples, "is brewing" is shown to be a common way to signal an impending event, requiring attention and awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is developing

Focuses on the process of gradual unfolding or growth.

is emerging

Emphasizes the initial stages of appearance or formation.

is unfolding

Highlights the gradual revelation or unveiling of events.

is taking shape

Suggests the formation of something tangible or well-defined.

is in the works

Indicates that something is currently being planned or prepared.

is on the horizon

Implies that something is approaching or likely to happen in the near future.

is looming

Conveys a sense of impending threat or danger.

is germinating

Suggests a slow and subtle process of development, often in a metaphorical sense.

is materializing

Highlights the process of becoming real or concrete.

is gestating

Implies a period of incubation or development before something is revealed.

FAQs

How can I use "is brewing" in a sentence?

You can use "is brewing" to describe a situation that is developing or about to happen, often implying tension or anticipation. For example, "A storm "is brewing" in the financial markets".

What's a more formal alternative to "is brewing"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is developing", "is emerging", or "is taking shape" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "was brewing" instead of "is brewing"?

Yes, "was brewing" is the past tense form and is correct when referring to a situation that was developing in the past but is no longer actively doing so. For example, "A conflict "was brewing" before the negotiations began".

What's the difference between "is brewing" and "is simmering"?

"Is brewing" often implies a more significant or impactful development, while "is simmering" suggests a quieter, less intense state of building tension or activity. For example, "Discontent "is simmering" among the workers" suggests a low-level, ongoing issue.